AIFF sticks to stance of not recognising Premier Futsal

New Delhi, March 9 (IANS) On a day when Premier Futsal lauched its second edition with a promise of greater number of matches and including three more cities, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) stuck to its stance of not recognising the tournament.

"Futsal, as per the AIFF constitution, is governed by the federation. The federation plans to start its own futsal tournament this year along with its marketing partner Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL)," a statement from the game's national governing body read.

"In this regard, the federation has also written to the Asian Football Confederation for support in structuring a national futsal tournament to be launched this year.

"The federation is also instructing all its affiliate units not to allow players who are registered with the affiliates to participate in this unauthorised and unofficial Futsal league," the statement added.

Meanwhile, in the presence of Portugal legend Luis Figo and former Wales and Manchester United star Ryan Giggs, the organisers set the ball rolling for the meet.

Falcao, the most popular face in world futsal, was also present.

The organisers also announced a first-of-its-kind scouting and talent hunt programme which aims to provide unique opportunity for amateur players to audition and get selected for the teams of their respective cities.

"My association with Premier Futsal has been a special one. The 2016 edition of the tournament brought back memories of enjoying the sport back in the streets of my hometown in Portugal," former Real Madrid star Figo, who is also the president of Premier Futsal, said.